Thailand is marking a historic milestone this April with a celebration rooted in heritage and cultural identity. This Apr. 22 to 26, 2026, the Ministry of Culture is hosting the “Living Rattanakosin Festival,” a grand commemoration of the Rattanakosin and its legacy in Thailand with a series of activities, exhibitions, and performances to look forward to.

Known as the period that began in 1782 with the founding of Rattanakosin (now Bangkok), its historic and cultural meaning continues to live on through the capital city and Thailand’s cultural landscape.

Billed as “Under the Royal Benevolence: 244 Years of Rattanakosin,” the festival unfolds across Bangkok’s key heritage sites, including Chulalongkorn University Park, National Museum Bangkok, and Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan.

Designed as a multi-site cultural showcase, the event brings together a wide range of activities aimed at making history more accessible and engaging for the public.

At Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, visitors can explore outdoor multimedia exhibitions and interactive installations marking the 244th anniversary of Rattanakosin, alongside curated showcases of Thai food, crafts, workshops, and live cultural performances.

Meanwhile, the National Museum Bangkok will host the “Rattanakosin Royal Night,” offering a rare after-dark experience of the Grand Palace. The lineup includes open-air film screenings, traditional performances, hands-on workshops such as Thai massage, and talks centered on cultural preservation and heritage.

Finally, the Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan will be a cultural showcase of the Klong San and Kudi Chin communities. Visitors can walk around and explore cultural stalls and community shops, and see the temple architecture light up at night. Activities such as an orchestra performance, Thai cultural shows, a religious food competition, and a Mahachat sermon dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit are also in store.

Framed on the theme “Living Rattanakosin: Past, Present, Future — Together We Walk,” the celebrations invite locals and tourists to reconnect with Thailand’s cultural and historic roots through immersive experiences that bridge tradition and modern life.

For more information and updates, follow the Ministry of Culture on Facebook and Instagram.